The Spices of Life...Curry

Turmeric

Cumin

Coriander

Fenugreek

Red Pepper

Allspice

White Pepper

Mustard

Ginger

Cinnamon

Cloves

Cardamon

and Nutmeg...

It is no wonder that Curry is so difficult to contain within the senses. It is mysterious, hypnotic, and has so many secrets to its formula that it has always held a nearly spiritual place in the kitchen. Curry is actually a generic word. The English word "Kari" which is Tamil in origin means "gravy" or "sauce"- not "spice" as we all seem to think of it. In Southern India Curry is referred to as a side dish, and Curry made with buttermilk and chickpea flour is found in Northern India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The lure of Curry is subtle in many ways, difficult to ascertain whether it is more the scent or the flavor which entwines its enjoyer. Curry releases endorphins which cause your taste palate to actually crave more, sometimes even in higher intensity. To the seasoned Curry consumer, walking anywhere near a traditional Indian restaurant with its heavenly scent wafting about will cause the person to make a detour inside for a meal no matter the previous plans. Once bitten, it is just not to be helped.
Curries can contain up to twenty

different spices and range in shades from yellows, to reds, to browns. Turmeric, however, is the ingredient which gives Curry its base flavor. Equally at home cooked with meats such as chicken, beef, and fish, it is also wonderful on any number of vegetables. A little Curry added to rice gives the grain incredible depth of flavor, especially when added to a scented rice such as Himalayan Basmati. In countries where Curry is part of the local heritage, recipes are passed down from family member to family member throughout the generations. Each is unique, almost like a family fingerprint. The English took Curry into their own kitchens after the general public became aware of the "Coronation Chicken", a dish made to commemorate the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. Luckily for us, we do not have to come up with our own recipe for Curry, although it might be a fun thing to try. Widely available as a powdered spice in most grocers, all it takes is a little experimentation in our own kitchens. Morton and Basset makes an organic Curry powder, a classic blend containing turmeric, fenugreek, coriander, mustard flour, cumin, ginger root, black pepper, allspice, cayenne and fennel. Just a teaspoon added to your next Indian inspired dish will transport you to Curry magic.